In a powerful commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has issued a compelling industry-wide mandate to transform recognition into concrete action for women’s advancement. The Fort Lauderdale-based organization used the occasion to celebrate the indispensable contributions of Caribbean women while launching a strategic framework to accelerate gender equity across the region’s vital tourism sector.
The initiative aligns with this year’s global campaign theme ‘Give To Gain,’ emphasizing the direct correlation between supporting women’s leadership and enhancing the Caribbean’s overall economic competitiveness. CHTA leadership emphasized that women constitute the backbone of the industry, serving as general managers, executives, entrepreneurs, tourism board leaders, and frontline professionals who define the guest experience throughout the region.
CHTA’s comprehensive action plan focuses on three critical dimensions: establishing structured mentorship and leadership development programs through their Young Leaders Forum; implementing evidence-based workplace practices that address gender bias and promote inclusion; and increasing visibility of female professionals through platforms like Women in Tourism Caribbean. The association highlighted that inclusive workplaces not only represent ethical imperatives but also drive superior business performance and innovation.
The call to action carries significant weight given CHTA’s own demonstrated commitment to gender leadership. The association revealed that three of its past five presidents have been women, with female leaders currently heading numerous National Hotel and Tourism Associations across the Caribbean.
CHTA President Sanovnik Destang, who serves as Executive Director of the woman-owned Bay Gardens Resorts in Saint Lucia, stated: ‘The women of Caribbean hospitality are not only contributing to this industry; they are shaping its future. Recognition alone is insufficient—we demand tangible steps to mentor, create pathways, and ensure the next generation of female leaders has every opportunity to rise.’
CEO Vanessa Ledesma reinforced this message, noting: ‘Caribbean tourism has always been built by the hands and vision of extraordinary women. We must now intentionally build leadership pipelines, create inclusive workplaces, and ensure women’s contributions are visible and celebrated.’
Throughout March 2026, CHTA will spotlight each action area through its communication channels, engaging members and industry partners in sustained efforts to transform commitments into measurable progress for gender equity in Caribbean tourism.